Free parking in Kettering to boost Christmas shopping

The initiative has been set up as part of the Christmas festivities and to support local businesses.

Shoppers will be able to park for free all day on Saturdays (December 2, 9, 16 and 23).

They will also be able to park free of charge after 3pm on Thursdays (December 7, 14 and 21).

Cllr Lesley Thurland, Kettering Council’s portfolio holder for finance, said: “We recognise that this is an important time of year for both families and businesses.

“Offering free parking days and fun and festive entertainment will encourage people to support our local businesses and the town centre and help make Kettering a popular destination this Christmas.”

The free parking applies to car parks in London Road, Queen Street, School Lane, School Lane Pop and Shop, Wadcroft and Commercial Road.

Shirley Plenderleith, head of public services at Kettering Council, said: “There’s never been a better time to get into Kettering town centre.

“I am looking forward to seeing everybody enjoying the free activities on offer.”

There will be plenty of chances to support your local town centre with late night shopping on Thursdays in the run-up to Christmas.

Small Business Saturday and the teenage market return on December 2 and you’ll find further entertainment in the form of a Christmas Market (Thursday, December 14, 4pm to 8pm), Foodie Friday Christmas Lunch (December 8, 11am to 3pm) and a chance to watch The Muppet Christmas Carol for free on the big screen on the Market Place (Thursday, December 21, 5pm).